A bat found in Burlington has tested positive for rabies, says the local health unit.
Halton Region Public Health (HRPH) advised in a news release that the infected nocturnal animal was located on Aug. 11.
This is the first confirmed case of rabies in a bat in that region this year.
Rabies is spread through the saliva of an infected animal like a raccoon, skunk, bat, dog, fox, or other wild animal, usually through a bite or scratch.
It is a viral disease that causes severe damage to the brain and spinal cord. If untreated before symptoms appear, rabies can lead to death.
The virus can, however, be prevented in humans with an “extremely effective” vaccine, but only if it is administered before symptoms occur, public heath noted.
“Although rabies in bats is rare, bites from rabid bats have caused almost all human cases of rabies in Canada,” said HRPH, adding that bats have small, “needle-like” teeth, and their bites can easily go undetected.
“If you have been bitten, scratched or exposed to bat saliva, wash any wounds thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately. If your healthcare provider recommends that you receive the rabies vaccine, make sure to stick with the schedule, and not miss any doses or take them on the wrong day.”
Some of the symptoms of rabies in bats are slow movements, loss of the ability to fly, being active during daylight hours, or being unresponsive to loud noises.
Anyone who locates a bat in their home, should not attempt to move it, but instead should contact their local Animal Control Services. People can also file an online report if they encounter a wild animal they suspect may have rabies.
How to protect your family, pets from rabies
Halton Regional Health Unit has provided the following list of tips to help people know what to do if they are exposed to a bat or any other animal that may have rabies:
- Call animal control services. Do not touch dead or sick animals with bare hands.
- Collect the contact information of the animal’s owner/custodian where applicable (their name, address and phone number).
- Immediately wash all bite or scratch wounds with soap and water and seek medical attention.
- Report all animal bites or scratches to Halton Region Public Health by calling 311.
Other rabies prevention, safety measures:
- Teach children to stay away from any wild, stray or aggressive animals.
- Do not touch, feed or move wildlife, including young, sick or injured animals.
- Avoid animals that are behaving strangely.
- If you find a stray animal, report it to your local Animal Control Services.
- Do not keep wild animals as pets.
- Make sure your pet’s rabies vaccinations are up to date.
- Keep your pet on a leash when off your property.
- Bring your pet to a veterinarian if it has come in contact with a bat or other wild animal.
- Animal-proof your home by filling any holes that could allow animals to enter.
More information about rabies can be found online.
